Portugal’s capital Lisbon comes alive with a rich history seen in every nook and cranny of the city. From the resting place of famous explorer Vasco de Gama at Jeronimos Monastery to the impressive turrets of São Jorge Castle dating all the way back to second century B.C.E., Lisbon offers a deep dive into the past to satiate the most curious travelers.
While Western Europe’s oldest city boasts an array of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, that does not mean it has remained stuck in the past. On the contrary, the colorful culture and vibrant life that runs throughout the city’s restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars make it buzz with infectious energy. Taking a tuk tuk through its hard-to-reach passages allows you to experience Lisbon as the locals do.

Along the southwestern coast of the Algarve region of Portugal lies the vibrant port city of Portimão, equal parts history come to life and modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. The Megalithic Monuments of Alcalar contain prehistoric remnants of the country’s beginnings while Praia da Rocha (Rock Beach) presents the quintessential beach scene that makes this an ideal, tropical getaway. Not far from here you’ll find Praia dos Três Castelos, a beach well-known for its strange and dramatic rock formations of limestone. Located in the urban setting of Portimão, the Fort of Santa Catarina creates a stark contrast with its medieval construct, where walking the ancient paths call to your inner child and make you feel a sense of wonder and imagination.

Cádiz, the province and city, is located on Spain’s southwestern edge and achieved its greatest fame during the era of the Catholic kings, as it became the headquarters for Spain’s exploration fleet and treasure ships. With the only inland port in Spain and lying farther from the coastline than other port cities, Seville offers over 2,000 years of history for the curious mind. Set out toward Donana National Park, Spain’s largest protected oasis and UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Lawrence of Arabia to the Star Wars franchise, Seville’s Plaza de España has played a role in film history..

The autonomous Spanish city of Ceuta lies on the northern coast of Africa, bordering Morocco. Religious influences from Christians, Sephardic Jews, Muslims and Sindhis have shaped its history and culture throughout the years, making it a diverse destination rife with adventure for the curious explorer. At the heart you will find Plaza de África, a charming square surrounded by lush, tropical plants and maintained cobblestone paths. Take a walk over to the Plaza de los Reyes to catch a glimpse of Ceuta’s fantastical Casa de los Dragones. Cool down in the summer at the Mediterraneo Marine Park.

The Spanish city of Málaga along the Mediterranean’s Costa del Sol combines the simple, cosmopolitan feel with the quiet sleepiness of local fishing villages. A dive into the past starts with the ruins of the Roman amphitheater, its ancient stones creating the path that leads to Alcazaba Castle. When the sun goes down, the party starts at Plaza de la Constitucion. Energy thrums through the city streets as the residents come out for the night. Make your way to Granada to visit the famous Alhambra Palace, an outstanding example of Moorish architecture that attracts travelers from all around the world.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

An exploration of Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia, will leave you in wide-eyed wonder. Its architecture, culture, and flavors amid sun and blue skies provides pure energy and anticipation. Valencia holds the same charms of historical structures as more frequently visited cities in Spain, but with fewer crowds. Over in the City of Arts and Sciences, an expanse of 350,000 square meters of the old Turia riverbed, many institutions – like the Oceanográfic Valencia, Europe’s largest aquarium – invite you to come and play.

The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona, lives up to its reputation as a center of grand architecture and inspiring art. Antoni Gaudi’s Park Guell displays architecture as art, making for a whimsical and colorful stroll through Barcelona. Stretching from La Rambla to Via Laietana you will find the Gothic Quarter, the city’s historic center with intricate medieval buildings and streets turned into modern bars, clubs, and restaurants. A short way up La Rambla you’ll come across La Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets, filled with fruits, pastries, and many tasty samples of local fare.

Sete lies at the foot of Mount St. Clair between the Gulf of Thau and the Mediterranean Sea. Hike to the summit to explore the Quartier Haute, once inhabited by Italian fishermen and now home mostly to artists who have opened their ateliers. There you can also peruse the Paul Valery Museum, displaying contemporary artists, including Maurice Sarthou, Albert Marquet, and Henry Matisse, as well as the church Notre-Dame-De-La-Salette, built on the site of an ancient fortress built by Louis XIII. A visit to Sete should include a jaunt to the beach-a heavenly strip of sandy coast that stretches for more than seven miles.

As your ship docks mere steps away from Old Marseille, its crowning jewel, Notre-Dame de la Gard Basilica, reaches into the sky to greet you. Pedal to Vieux Port, the city’s natural harbor, and take in the arts scene, shops and a traditional Marseillaise lunch, such as the classic bouillabaisse, a soup made with five different kinds of fish. Le Panier neighborhood, Marseilles’ oldest district, offers the perfect way to get lost in genuine culture. Meanwhile, in the nearby Aix-en-Provence, discover the picturesque Le Cours Mirabeau. Wander until you find the Atelier Cézanne, the art studio where famous post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne created most of his works.

Nice rises from the pebbled coast to lush hills, yet the heart of the city is located between the old port city and the Aeroport de Côte d’Azur. To take it all in, enjoy a jaunt on the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean Sea. The Old Port, located in Vieux Nice (Old Nice), is a colorful and busy place, with various markets. There discover an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas. Stretch out on Nice’s recognizable blue lounge chairs on one of its iconic beaches. Some of these private beaches, like the Blue Beach or the Castel Beach, are among the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera.